Written by Simrin Pardal
What if your home could adapt to you as you age, instead of you adapting to a new place?
The desire to age in place is very common. Over 80% of Canadians prefer to age in place and pay for support as needed.1
Although we may wish to grow old in our homes, many homes and communities are not equipped with the structural features and support services required to allow this to be a feasible option.2
Key considerations for aging in place include your health, home, transportation, finances, social connections, safety, supports and services, community, relationships, and if you are living with anyone.3
However, in order to continue living in your home as you age, it is important to have access to health and social supports and services which allow you to live safely and independently.2
Occupational Therapists can assist with aging in place. OTs are trained in assessing safety and accessibility at your home and making recommendations for adapting your home to your needs. OTs are trained in assessing the level of independence in engagement in daily activities and assist with optimizing your functioning and independence.2
Based on your preferences and needs, this may include tailored suggestions of potential home modifications and/or recommendations for assistive devices and adaptive tools which can increase independence in your home and community.
A key consideration with aging is that an individual’s needs may become increasingly complex. For instance, those with chronic conditions, multiple commodities, progressive conditions, or cognitive decline, may require additional support if they notice changes in their function due to their condition.
You may also notice changes in your health, mobility, or social connections as you age.3
The risk of falls while living at home is a major concern as nearly 20 – 30% of seniors fall in their home each year, and half of those falls result in hospitalization.2
Support from loved ones can be considered when planning to age in place. Having groceries delivered by a family member or someone checking in every few days may provide meaningful assistance while still promoting independence and enabling individuals to remain in their homes longer.
Planning for aging can allow you to be prepared for when you may notice changes in your day-to-day functioning. Thinking about supports you can access and alternative living situations, such as a retirement home or nursing home, can allow you to remain in control over where you decide to live in the future if a change occurs.4
At GLA Rehab, our healthcare providers can assist you with planning for aging and recommending the appropriate supports for you.
We recognize that the environment and manner in which you age significantly influence both your quality of life and your sense of dignity.
Our goal is to support you in maintaining the highest possible level of independence throughout the aging process.
References
[1] National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly in Canada (NICE). (2025, February 18). Aging in Place. NICE. https://www.nicenet.ca/articles/aging-in-place
[2] Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT). (2024). Aging in place. CAOT. https://caot.ca/site/adv-news/advocacy/aginginplace?nav=sidebar&banner=5
[3] Government of Canada. (2025, May 7). Thinking about your future? Plan now to Age in Place – A checklist. https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/corporate/seniors-forum-federal-provincial-territorial/aging-checklist.html
[4] Government of Canada. (2025, May 7). Thinking about aging in place. https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/corporate/seniors-forum-federal-provincial-territorial/aging-checklist.html